Join Our Community

Membership Information

Are you looking for a place to connect, grow, and belong? Temple Beth El is more than just a place to attend Shabbat services; it is a vibrant community where individuals and families come together to share their religion, traditions, and experiences. Whether you are new to the area or seeking a deeper connection to your Jewish heritage, we invite you to explore the many benefits of becoming a member of our community.

At Temple Beth El, we believe that everyone has a place. Our doors are open to all, and we welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. This page will provide you with essential information about membership, the benefits of joining, and how you can get involved.

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What is Temple Beth El?

Temple Beth El is an unaffiliated Jewish congregation that has been serving the community since 1959. Our mission is to create a welcoming environment where everyone can explore their spirituality and engage in meaningful activities with their Jewish community. We offer a variety of programs, services, and events that cater to all ages and interests.

Our congregation is committed to fostering a sense of belonging and connection. We believe that being part of a community enriches our lives and helps us grow as individuals.

Membership Application

Dues Schedule

Benefits of Membership

Joining Temple Beth El comes with numerous benefits that enhance your Jewish journey and community involvement. Here are some key advantages of becoming a member:

Religious Services

As a member, you will have access to regular Shabbat services, educational programs, and holiday services. Rabbi David and members are dedicated to helping you deepen your understanding of Jewish traditions and practices.

Community Engagement

Membership provides opportunities to connect with others who share your values and interests. You can participate in social events, volunteer opportunities, and community service projects. Building relationships with fellow members can lead to lifelong friendships and a feeling of belonging.

Educational Resources

Temple Beth El offers a range of educational programs for all ages. From adult education classes to youth programs, there is something for everyone. You can learn about Jewish history, culture, and religious practices in a supportive environment.

Family Support

We understand that family is important. Our congregation offers programs specifically designed for families, including religious school to prepare for B'nei mitzvah, special family programming, family services, and holiday celebrations. These activities create lasting memories and strengthen family bonds.

How to Become a Member

Becoming a member of Temple Beth El is a straightforward process. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Visit Us: We encourage you to attend a service or event to get a feel for our community.
You can contact the office at 757-220-1205 or email office@tbewilliamsburg.org.
Meet with Rabbi David: Schedule a meeting with Rabbi David (via the office). This is a great opportunity to ask questions and learn more about our congregation.
Complete the Membership Application: Once you decide to join, fill out the membership application form. This form can be found on our website or obtained at the temple.
Pay Membership Dues: Membership comes with an annual fee, which helps support our programs, services, and building maintenance. We offer various payment options to accommodate different financial situations.
Get Involved: After joining, we encourage you to participate in our programs and events. The more you engage, the more you will feel at home.

Membership Application

Dues Schedule

Events and Activities

Temple Beth El hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Here are some highlights:

Shabbat Services

Every Friday evening and two Saturday mornings per month, we hold Shabbat services. These gatherings are a time for prayer, reflection, and community. They provide a peaceful space to connect with G-d and fellow congregants.

Holiday Celebrations

We celebrate all major Jewish holidays, including Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Simchat Torah, Purim, Passover, Shavuot, and Hanukkah. Each holiday is marked with special services, meals, and activities that bring our community together.

Educational Programs

Our educational offerings include classes on Jewish texts, Hebrew language, and cultural traditions for adults. We also have programs for children and teens, including TBE School and Parent & Me, ensuring that every generation has the opportunity to learn and grow.

Social Events

Throughout the year, we host social events such as potlucks, group outings to local places, and weekly craft and mahjong clubs. These gatherings are a great way to meet new people and strengthen existing relationships.

Volunteer Opportunities

We believe in tikkun olam - repairing the world. Members can participate in various volunteer projects, from food drives to clean-ups. These activities allow us to make a positive impact while working together.

Getting Involved

Once you become a member, there are many ways to get involved at Temple Beth El. Here are some suggestions:

Join a Committee

We have several committees focused on different aspects of temple life, including film festivals, social action, and membership. Joining a committee is a great way to contribute your skills and ideas.

Attend Events Regularly

Make it a point to attend services and events regularly. The more you participate, the more connected you will feel to the community.

Volunteer Your Time

Consider volunteering for events or programs. Whether it is helping with a holiday celebration or assisting in the office, your time and talents are valuable to us.

Connect with Others

Take the initiative to meet new people. Introduce yourself to fellow members and engage in conversations. Building relationships is key to feeling at home in our community.

Share Your Ideas

We welcome feedback and suggestions from our members. If you have ideas for new programs or events, please share them with us. Your input helps us grow and improve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of membership?

Membership dues vary based on family size and income. We strive to make membership accessible to everyone. If you have concerns about the cost, please reach out to us. We do not want cost to prohibit membership.

Are there programs for children?

Absolutely! We have a range of programs for children and teens, including religious school and family events. We believe in nurturing the next generation of Jewish leaders.

How can I stay updated on events?

You can stay informed by subscribing to our newsletter (all members are automatically subscribed to our weekly and monthly e-newsletters), following us on social media, and checking our website regularly. We keep our members updated on all upcoming events and activities.

What if I have more questions?

If you have any questions or need more information, please do not hesitate to contact us!

Committees

Looking to get more involved in life at Temple Beth El? We'd love to have you join one of our committees. Take a look at some of our committees and reach out to the committee chair or the office join.

Building and Grounds

Oversees the maintenance of all physical structures and grounds associated with TBE-W, and is responsible for implementation of improvements.

Chair: Hayes Press

Hospitality

Organizes social gatherings and meals, works with the membership committee to welcome to new members, and helps coordinate the non-religious portions of holidays and celebrations.

Chair: Beth Jacobi

Library

Maintains the synagogue library, including working on the online catalog system, periodic reorganization, labeling, and ordering efforts.

Chair: Carly Zeh

Ritual

Oversees all religious activities of the congregation, in particular around holidays and religious celebrations. All decisions made in conjunction with the rabbi.

Chairs: Steve Alter and Bart Singer

Communications

Maintains the weekly and monthly communication to the synagogue via newsletters, social media, and in person flyers in the social hall.

Chair: Carly Zeh

Jewish Film Festival

Coordinates and prepares the bi-annual Jewish Film Festival, including selecting films, working with the public library, and sharing the film festival with the public.

Chair: Neil Portnoff

Membership

Welcomes new members to the community and connects members to TBE-W resources and committees.

Chair: Sue Portnoff

Safety and Security

Maintains the safety and security of our synagogue, including coordinating the maintenance of cameras and safety equipment at TBE-W, scheduling bi-annual trainings, and coordinating with SCN.

Chair: Matt Jacobi

Finance and Budget

Makes periodic reviews of the financial operations of the congregation, prepares the budget to address needs and objectives of the congregation, and ensures insurance needs are met and appropriate.